Cassy O'Connor MP | Greens Leader and Housing spokesperson
The Gutwein Government is making some inroads in to the critical housing supply shortage but progress remains too slow.
Housing Tasmania’s March Quarterly Report shows the rate of increasing housing supply remains at about half the rate it was under the Labor Green government.
From 2014 through to 2023 the Report projects the Liberals will have built 2400 new homes. In comparison to the Liberals’ record, during the four years of the Labor Green government we delivered 2200 new, affordable and energy efficient homes. That’s what happens when governments prioritise critical social infrastructure over roads and corporate handouts.
Our economy and the construction industry are in desperate need of support, with the construction industry warning of 7,000 job losses in the next 18 months. There's a demonstrable need for the Gutwein government to initiate a housing led recovery.
Building an additional 2,000 new, affordable energy effiicient homes on top of the existing projections is a win, win win. More affordable homes for Tasmanians who need them, secure jobs in building and construction, and a kickstart to an economy gut-punched by the virus.
A housing led recovery is the clear, sensible path forward for stimulus spending. It will also shape a better, fairer future for Tasmania.
During and after coronavirus, we have to make sure no one is left behind.